Placing hives protected from wind, facing morning sun, under afternoon shade if it's hot in summer, and on a stand that is 18 inches high is nice.
Protection from wind is about the biggest thing to worry about, especially in winter.
Morning sun gets the girls warmed up and working early, and is especially nice in winter.
Afternoon shade is nice for hot summer days to help them keep the temps down in the broodnest.
Placing them on a stand up off ground is nice for your back and helps protect from skunks.